‘Don’t go out for photos or videos’: Indian embassy warns nationals in UAE amid Iran war

The Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued an advisory to Indian nationals living in or visiting the United Arab Emirates, urging them not to take photographs or record videos at locations where security incidents have occurred amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

In a statement, the embassy said UAE authorities have warned that strict action would be taken against anyone involved in unauthorised filming of incident locations, restricted areas or inside airports. The advisory also cautioned against sharing or circulating images of such sites on digital or social media platforms.

Indian nationals have been advised that when warning alerts are issued, they should immediately move to a safe location and remain there until authorities lift the alert. The embassy emphasised that people should not step outside to capture photographs or videos of any incident or damage caused by projectiles or shrapnel.

The advisory further asked residents to report any suspicious objects or falling debris to authorities and stay away from such locations. It also warned travellers not to take photographs or record videos inside airports during arrival or departure.

The caution comes as tensions in the Middle East intensify following US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory missile and drone attacks targeting American military bases and energy infrastructure across the region. Several Gulf countries, including the UAE, have reported intercepting Iranian attacks as the conflict continues to escalate.